Higher Electrical / Mechanical Engineer Review
at BAE Systems
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Portsmouth
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
3.5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3.5/5
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
I fix errors in engineering drawings, validate changes and other things. It is enjoyable when I have work to do, but work generally comes in waves - either I have a lot to do or almost nothing
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
The work itself is enjoyable, my colleagues, other apprentices and the staff in Portsmouth are great, but the HNC has been very mismanaged, disorganised and stressful and the BAE lecturers for that are mediocre at best
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I've learned all the skills necessary for my job, such as use of AutoCAD and Adobe Acrobat or moving around on ships
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
Organisation of my work placements is generally functional, minor improvements could be made but it is quite flexible and I believe should stay like that. Organisation of my Engineering Standard has been o, however there is room for improvement, The HNC has been severely disappointing, with significant room for improvement in the quality of assignments, teaching, feedback and support.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
BAE provides significant support for both mental and physical health, which is very useful. Additionally, my line manager and colleagues have all been very supportive and helpful while learning how to do my job
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
The staff based in Portsmouth provide as much support as they can when asked, and are very understanding and respectful. The HNC lecturers provide occasional support, but it is usually of poor quality, if given at all
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
I believe extra-curricular activities are offered but I am not certain. There are groups of BAE employees who organise extra-curricular activities, but while they are endorsed by BAE, I don't think they are fully supported. Additionally, BAE Systems does do a lot of outreach, which I have partaken in and was rather enjoyable
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is generally a good company which provides for its employees, with good wages, great benefits and a positive working environment
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Apply early and practice for interviews - a huge amount of people apply, so there is significant competition
